In a determined quest to reposition Federal Polytechnic Nekede as a hub of academic excellence, the office of the Rector, Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, approved a high-level Research Grant Writing Workshop organized by the Directorate of Research, Innovation, and Development (RI&D), led by the Acting Director, Dr. (Mrs.) Peace C. Abana.
The event, held at the CIBN Hall on Wednesday, 25th June 2025, was focused on demystifying the National Research Fund (NRF) Grant process.
The workshop drew participation from a cross-section of the academic community, including, Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, staff, and students. Representing the Rector at the event was the Director of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance, Dr. A. C. Madu. Also present were the Polytechnic Orator, Dr. Anayo Uhiara, and the Director of Collaboration and Linkages, Dr. Theodore Mbata.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Peace Abana appreciated the unwavering support of the Rector and Management.
She recounted how the guest speaker, Prof. Emeka E. Oguzie, inspired her journey into research leadership and emphasized the urgency of demystifying grant acquisition for researchers.
“Research is non-negotiable in academia, yet attracting grants remains a daunting task for many,” she stated.
She noted that FUTO’s success in this area served as the impetus for inviting Prof. Oguzie to share his insights.
Speaking on behalf of the Rector, Dr. A. C. Madu reiterated the administration’s commitment to building a vibrant research culture.
“Research defines an institution’s relevance and global visibility,” he noted. He praised the RI&D for the initiative and pledged to relay potential outcomes to the Rector. He then declared the workshop open.
Prof. Oguzie’s presentation, titled “Cracking the NRF Code: Transforming Ideas into Funded Proposals,” offered a roadmap for researchers.
He emphasized aligning research themes with national priorities, maintaining proposal clarity, and building strong institutional collaborations. He outlined the anatomy of a successful grant proposal and shared pitfalls to avoid, providing practical strategies to improve application outcomes.
The interactive Q&A session that followed allowed participants to gain deeper insights into proposal development and funding success strategies.
To cap the event, Certificates of Recognition were presented to selected research champions within the Polytechnic.
The Rector, Dr. Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, was specially honored as a visionary driving force behind the institution’s rising research profile.
Other honorees included Dr. Theodore I. Mbata, Dr. Oyemike V. Benson, Engr. Dr. Eze R. Onukwugha, Dr. Emmanuel C. Nleonu, Engr. Dr. Solomon Okorafor, Dr. (Mrs.) Charis Onuoha, Dr. Ibigoni C. Howard, Dr. (Mrs.) Chioma Okore, and Dr. (Mrs.) Peace C. Abana, whose dedication and innovation continue to position Nekede as a research-centered institution with increasing global relevance.
It is however instructive to note that under Dr. Igbokwe’s visionary leadership, Federal Polytechnic Nekede is anchoring its growth on Research, Innovation, and Development—key pillars for maintaining its top ranking in Nigeria’s polytechnic education landscape.
